Engine Coolant level too high/Overheating?

[willh652]

HI there,

Not the most experience in cars but my 2001 reg 206cc keeps overheating (or so i think?).

Basically I know my fan does not work and my dad (30 years as a mechanic) seems to think its the resistor. I am not overly sure this is the complete answer to the problem. Now evertime i drive after about 25 mins, especialy at 30mph+ the engine coolant sensor goes straight to the red and then back below 90 and then back up to the red and so on. This is for the whole drive every 2-3 mins it drops and goes back up. I also checked my coolant tank and its very rusty coloured (does this need changing ie flushing and re filling). Is the pump broken?

I'm just bit perplexed really! any advice or help would be fantastic!

Cheers!

[Capncol]

If your coolant tank has rusty water, then the system needs flushing. When was the cam belt changed? If it's due then new belt, pump, and coolant wouldn't be a bad idea. But first you need to confirm if it is overheating. Does it run cooler with the heater on full heat? Can you verify with a thermometer?

Other things to consider is faulty thermostat, temp sender, blocked rad, or head gasket.